Before the maiko and geiko of Gion Kobu grace the stage to perform Miyako Odori, the Dance of the Old Capital, overly-anxious guests like me try to curb their enthusiasm by browsing the exhibit of artwork done by the maiko and geiko themselves, including paintings, calligraphy, and flower arrangements. A few of the famous "uniform" kimono the dance is famous for are also on display, highlighting different designs and themes used over the years.

Oil painting of two geiko wearing the Miyako Odori 'uniform' kimono and hanakanzashi (flowered hair ornaments) by the geiko Suzuko.

Kimono design used in the fifth year of Heisei, 1993.

My personal favorite, worn in the fifty-third year of Showa, 1978.

This design must have been the height of kimono chic in Showa's fifty-nineth year, 1984.

I loved this simple silhouette which captures the mystique, innocent playfulness and youthful beauty of a maiko. I wish I knew who painted it!

6 comments:

Pssst... I know, I know. You start a rough but useful cat burglar course and you snatch those kimonos, and the silhouette portrait, and you send them to me. It -is- a foolproof plan! *cough gently* Just kidding. Seriously though, I just love the silhouette portrait and my favourite kimono is the second, I truly love the way the fans are woven! ^_^

my name is Minoru i have a miyako odori showa 53 year green kimono. i decided to sell it. if anybody is interested i leave my email address here. please leave me a message if you are interested. this is an authentic miyako odori kimono made of chirimen silk and habutae, the picture is on flickr my account is miyakomaeri or kiyoharal . this offer is for real collector. it is a museum piece in excellent condition.